Checking out a book at Mendocino County Libraries? Check your blood pressure too.

OAKLAND, May 18, 2026 —Patrons who visit any of the six Mendocino County Libraries will now be able to check their blood pressure and manage a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. The resources are available as part of Libraries with Heart by the American Heart Association, devoted to a healthier future for all. Library card holders will also have the option to borrow blood pressure monitoring kits for at home measurement the same way they check out a book at the Ukiah Library branch. “Libraries are an amazing fount of resources. We know that high blood pressure is a major health threat, and now our community can find tools at their local library to help them manage their heart health,” said Mellisa Hannum, County Library/Director of Mendocino County Library. “In addition to blood pressure cuffs, the library also provides American Heart Association information on how to properly measure blood pressure at home, an explanation of what blood pressure numbers mean and a contact list of care providers who will provide follow-up to anyone who needs it.” High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because usually it has no symptoms. The only way to know if someone has high blood pressure is to get it checked, according to the American Heart Association. Almost half of U.S. adults – 47.3% - have high blood pressure [1] , increasing their risk for heart attack, stroke or kidney disease. These poor health outcomes can potentially be avoided if high blood pressure is managed. Unfortunately, many people are not even aware that their blood pressure is elevated, and the use of a blood pressure monitor might be difficult because of cost or lack of access. Libraries with Heart aims to improve the health of local communities by making these resources readily available for free for those who need them. “Libraries with Heart helps to break down barriers to health care so that everyone has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life,” said Cherish Hart, Region Vice President, Community Impact at the American Heart Association. “Together with Mendocino County, the American Heart Association aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and ultimately save lives from heart disease and stroke.” Through the non-profit Califa, twenty-four libraries in 49 locations in rural areas of California are participating in Libraries with Heart, as part of the Rural Health Connections Project which is supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian. To learn more about blood pressure, visit www.heart.org/BP . Additional Resources: Multimedia available on the left side of this release 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update Fact Sheet At-a-Glance Web resource: High Blood Pressure | American Heart Association Web resource: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings | American Heart Association ### About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org , Facebook , X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. For Media Inquiries: Nerissa Itchon: nerissa.itchon@heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org [1] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001412?utm_campaign=2026stat-update&utm_source=heart&utm_medium=link&utm_content=statshome